Sheffield Wednesday: Owls look to bolster defensive options

A new centre-half remains at the top of Owls manager Jos Luhukay’s summer shopping list as he bids to fine-tune his side ahead of the 2018/19 season.

It is well-documented Wednesday are out to trim their bloated squad and lower their wage bill this summer.

But it is thought Luhukay, who opted not to renew Glenn Loovens’ contract at the end of last season, wants to sign a minimum of one defender to increase competition for places at the heart of their rearguard.

The Star understands Frederico Venancio is Luhukay’s number one transfer target. The Owls have held talks with Venancio’s parent club Vitoria de Setubal over signing him on a permanent basis. Venancio shone while on loan at Hillsborough last season, making 25 appearances in all competitions.